Word On Arthritis Self Management

Our grateful thanks to Arthritis Action (arthritisaction.org.uk) for their contribution to our radio report which you can hear again at the bottom of this page.   

Self-Management for Arthritis: What You Should Know.  Living with arthritis doesn’t mean your life is defined by pain, limitations, or medications alone. Self-management is about taking control—through small, consistent actions—to reduce symptoms, preserve movement, and improve your quality of life.

Below is a guide to what self-management means, how the charity Arthritis Action helps, and practical steps you (or someone you know) can try right now.

What Is Self-Management? Arthritis Action tell us, 'It means actively managing the physical, emotional, and lifestyle impacts of arthritis in partnership with your healthcare team. It’s not passive—it's about learning skills, adopting habits, and tailoring them to your life.' 

Supported vs Independent: While you take charge, self-management also includes using support—family, professionals, peer groups—so you’re not doing it alone. 

Why Self-Management Matters.  Arthritis can flare unpredictably and affect daily tasks, mood, sleep, energy, and mobility. But self-management gives you tools to:

• Reduce pain and stiffness;
• Build strength and flexibility;
• Manage fatigue;
• Improve mood and reduce stress;
• Keep active and independent for longer.

Arthritis Action describes self-management as one of the few ways you can shift the focus from “I can’t” to “I can manage this impact.” 

What Does the Arthritis Action Programme Offer? Arthritis Action is the only UK charity that combines hands-on help with self-management guidance. Their offerings include:

• Local physical therapy access and tailored exercise support; 
• Dietary and nutritional advice integrated with self-management strategies;
• Self-management courses, workshops, and events across the UK to help people build knowledge, skills, and peer support connections;
• A revamped online “Introduction to Self-Management” resource to help newcomers gain confidence and clarity. 

Key Self-Management Techniques You Can Use. Here are widely recommended techniques (adapted from Arthritis Action resources and international best practices) that many people find helpful:

• Movement & Exercise. Gentle, regular movement: walking, swimming, yoga, light resistance training. Stay consistent. Start slowly and build. 
• Pacing & Activity Planning. Space tasks out, alternate “on” and “rest” periods, avoid overdoing on good days. 
• Pain Management. Use heat/cold, gentle movement, relaxation or breathing techniques, distraction strategies, and ask about pain medication if needed. 
• Diet, Weight & Nutrition. Focus on a balanced diet, maintain healthy weight, anti-inflammatory foods might help as part of overall strategy (but no one “cure diet”). 
• Emotional & Mental Health. Address stress, mood changes or frustration. Support through peer groups, counselling, mindfulness, and talking openly about how arthritis affects life. 
• Sleep & Fatigue. Prioritise sleep hygiene. Adjust routines to allow rest when symptoms are worse.
• Support & Community.  Join peer groups, online forums, or local activity groups—learning from others helps reduce isolation. Arthritis Action hosts online groups to share tips and experience. 

What You Can Do Next (Right Now)

• Visit Arthritis Action’s Self-Management Intro Page at arthritisaction.org.uk - it gives clear, friendly steps for beginners. 
• Download their free Self-Management Booklet - great reference you can keep at hand. 
• Explore local events or groups - find a self-management course or workshop near you via Arthritis Action. 
• Talk to your GP or physiotherapist - ask if they support your self-management plan; they might help with referrals or guidance.
• Set small, realistic goals - even small improvements (e.g. 5 extra minutes’ walk, a breathing exercise habit) can build momentum.

Listen to this weeks radio report